This delightful Orange Carrot Cake merges the wholesome goodness of carrots with the bright zest of orange, all while catering to gluten-free and lactose-free dietary needs. Utilizing a blend of gluten-free flours and natural sweeteners, this cake offers a moist, flavorful base without the use of traditional wheat flour or dairy products. The addition of homemade gluten-free flour mix ensures that every slice is tender and satisfying.
Why You'll Love This: Perfect for health-conscious individuals or those with dietary restrictions, this cake does not compromise on taste or texture. The natural sweetness of the carrots combined with the citrusy burst from the orange juice makes this cake both refreshing and indulgent. It's a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed at any time of the day, from a light breakfast option to a delightful afternoon treat.
Perfect Occasion: Ideal for family gatherings, brunches, or special occasions where dietary considerations are paramount. It's also great for birthday celebrations, especially for those who appreciate a healthier alternative to traditional cakes. This cake's bright flavors and moist texture are sure to impress all your guests, regardless of their dietary needs.
Decoration Tips: To enhance the cake's appearance, drizzle a simple icing made from powdered sugar and water over the top once it has cooled. Garnish with orange zest or thin orange slices for a pop of color and a hint of additional citrus flavor. A sprinkling of crushed nuts or a dash of cinnamon can also add both texture and flavor to this delightful cake.
Ingredients:
- 3 eggs
- 3/4 cup powdered sweetener or demerara sugar
- 1/2 cup sunflower oil or coconut oil
- 1 medium carrot (100g), peeled
- Juice of 1 orange
- 1 and 1/2 cups gluten-free flour mix (Example mix: 1/2 cup rice flour, 1/2 cup cornstarch, 1/2 cup sweet potato starch)
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
Recipe:
- Prepare the Oven and Pan:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F). Grease a cake pan and set aside.
- Blend Wet Ingredients:
- In a blender, combine eggs, sweetener, and oil. Blend until smooth.
- Add the carrot and orange juice, and blend for 2 minutes until the mixture is completely smooth.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the gluten-free flour mix. Gradually add the wet ingredients from the blender, stirring until just combined to avoid overmixing.
- Add Baking Powder and Bake:
- Stir in the baking beginning to incorporate evenly.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Decorate:
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- If desired, mix powdered sugar with a little water to make a thin icing and drizzle over the cooled cake.
Enjoy this deliciously moist and flavorful Orange Carrot Cake that's both gluten-free and lactose-free, ensuring no one has to miss out on a slice of cake joy!